FC Barcelona striker Hamza Abdelkarim has recently been embroiled in controversy during his international duty with Egypt. In a friendly match against South Africa, Hamza started on the bench and came on in the 69th minute to replace Omar Mamoush. Following Egypt’s 0-1 defeat, Egyptian media caught Hamza in a tense exchange with national team coach Hossam Hassan, which ended without the customary handshake, sparking debate about the striker’s treatment and opportunities.

Hamza, a promising young talent who became a permanent fixture for Egypt in 2026 after transferring permanently to FC Barcelona earlier in the year, has not consistently been a starter. Despite scoring his first international goal against South Sudan in a 5-0 victory last month, coaching decisions have kept him benched in some important matches. This has led to calls from prominent Egyptian commentators like Bashir El Tabei for Hamza to receive more playing time and recognition, especially in less critical fixtures such as friendlies.

Back at FC Barcelona, Hamza’s prospects for first-team minutes might improve soon. The club’s Brazilian winger Raphinha returned early from international duty with discomfort in his right thigh, although medical tests showed no injury. This situation may prompt head coach Hansi Flick to rest Raphinha for upcoming matches, potentially opening opportunities for Hamza to compete alongside Gabriel Jesus for playing time.

Barcelona faces a demanding schedule in October, with high-profile clashes against Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Getafe. Flick might also adapt his attacking lineup by deploying alternatives like Anthony Gordon or Karim Adeyemi on the wings. Meanwhile, Hamza Abdelkarim’s development and integration into Barcelona’s squad are part of close monitoring as he balances club ambitions with his impactful, yet occasionally contentious, international career.